30+ Tasty Winter Pasta Salad Recipes

As the cold weather settles in, it’s the perfect time to cozy up with hearty, flavorful dishes that offer a delightful balance of warmth and freshness.

Winter pasta salads are the ideal choice for bringing comfort to your table during the colder months.

From rich and creamy to light and citrusy, these salads combine seasonal ingredients like roasted vegetables, hearty greens, and tangy dressings, creating vibrant dishes that can serve as a satisfying side or a complete meal.

Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or a holiday gathering, these 30+ winter pasta salad recipes are perfect for adding a burst of flavor to your winter menu.

In this blog article, we’ve rounded up a diverse selection of winter pasta salads that are not only full of seasonal ingredients but also easy to prepare.

Whether you’re craving something with a bit of sweetness, a touch of earthiness, or a citrusy zing, you’ll find the perfect recipe to suit your taste.

So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into these delicious, comforting, and creative pasta salads that will warm you up all winter long.

30+ Tasty Winter Pasta Salad Recipes

Winter pasta salads are more than just a dish; they’re an opportunity to explore the flavors of the season while keeping meals light, fresh, and satisfying.

Whether served alongside a hearty soup or enjoyed on their own, these 30+ winter pasta salad recipes bring a refreshing twist to your winter dining.

With vibrant ingredients and bold flavors, these salads make the perfect addition to any meal, offering a touch of warmth and comfort for your family and friends.

So, try out these recipes and get creative with your pasta salads—winter has never tasted so good!

Winter Harvest Pasta Salad

Warm up your chilly days with a hearty Winter Harvest Pasta Salad. This vibrant dish combines the earthy flavors of roasted root vegetables, the tang of dried cranberries, and the nutty goodness of walnuts, all brought together with a maple mustard vinaigrette. It’s a perfect side dish for holiday gatherings or a wholesome lunch that celebrates the season’s best ingredients.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz fusilli pasta (or any short pasta)
• 1 cup roasted butternut squash, cubed
• 1 cup roasted Brussels sprouts, halved
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• ¼ cup walnuts, chopped
• ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese

Maple Mustard Vinaigrette:

• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water. Set aside.
2. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss butternut squash and Brussels sprouts with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, roasted vegetables, dried cranberries, walnuts, and feta cheese.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the vinaigrette ingredients until smooth. Pour over the pasta salad and toss to coat evenly.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for an hour to let the flavors meld.

The Winter Harvest Pasta Salad is a symphony of seasonal flavors, offering a delightful balance of sweet, tangy, and savory. This dish proves that pasta salads aren’t just for summer—they can be a winter favorite too!

Creamy Kale and Bacon Winter Pasta Salad

Indulge in the comfort of Creamy Kale and Bacon Winter Pasta Salad, a rich and satisfying dish that’s perfect for cooler months. The smoky bacon complements the creamy dressing, while kale adds a nutritious twist. This pasta salad is versatile enough to serve as a main dish or an indulgent side for your winter meals.

Ingredients:

• 10 oz penne pasta
• 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 2 cups kale, finely chopped
• ½ red onion, thinly sliced
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Creamy Dressing:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup sour cream
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain, rinse, and let cool.
2. Blanch the kale in boiling water for 1 minute, then immediately transfer to an ice bath. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine pasta, kale, bacon, red onion, and Parmesan cheese.
4. Whisk together the dressing ingredients in a small bowl until smooth. Pour over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
5. Chill for 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Creamy Kale and Bacon Winter Pasta Salad is a crowd-pleaser that’s as hearty as it is flavorful. The creamy dressing ties all the ingredients together, making every bite irresistible. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a potluck staple!

Citrus and Pomegranate Winter Pasta Salad

Brighten up your winter table with a zesty Citrus and Pomegranate Winter Pasta Salad. This dish features the vibrant colors and fresh flavors of the season, combining juicy orange segments, tart pomegranate seeds, and a citrus vinaigrette with al dente pasta. It’s a refreshing yet hearty option for those cold winter days.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz bow-tie pasta
• 1 orange, peeled and segmented
• ½ cup pomegranate seeds
• ¼ cup sliced almonds, toasted
• ¼ cup goat cheese, crumbled
• 1 cup arugula

Citrus Vinaigrette:

• 3 tbsp orange juice
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta until al dente. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine pasta, orange segments, pomegranate seeds, toasted almonds, goat cheese, and arugula.
3. Whisk together the vinaigrette ingredients until emulsified. Drizzle over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
4. Serve immediately for a fresh flavor or refrigerate for a couple of hours to enhance the taste.

The Citrus and Pomegranate Winter Pasta Salad is a burst of sunshine on a chilly day. Its tangy and sweet flavors, combined with the crunch of almonds, create a light yet satisfying dish. This pasta salad is as beautiful to look at as it is delicious to eat!

Winter Chicken and Spinach Orzo Salad

This Winter Chicken and Spinach Orzo Salad is a protein-packed, flavor-forward dish perfect for the colder months. Tender chicken breast, nutty orzo, and fresh spinach are paired with sun-dried tomatoes and a tangy balsamic dressing. It’s hearty enough for a main meal yet light enough to enjoy as a side.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 ½ cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• ¼ cup pine nuts, toasted
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Balsamic Dressing:

• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tsp honey
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the orzo according to package instructions. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine orzo, chicken, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Whisk the dressing ingredients together in a small bowl. Pour over the salad and toss until evenly coated.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving to let the flavors meld.

The Winter Chicken and Spinach Orzo Salad is a harmonious blend of warm and fresh flavors. The balsamic dressing adds a tangy depth that complements the hearty ingredients, making this dish a wintertime favorite.

Roasted Cauliflower and Chickpea Winter Pasta Salad

Warm, roasted cauliflower and protein-rich chickpeas come together in this Roasted Cauliflower and Chickpea Winter Pasta Salad. With a lemony tahini dressing, this dish is comforting yet light, perfect for lunch or as a nutritious side dish at your next dinner gathering.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz rigatoni pasta
• 2 cups cauliflower florets, roasted
• 1 cup canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• ½ red bell pepper, diced
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled

Lemony Tahini Dressing:

• 2 tbsp tahini
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp water (to thin, if necessary)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions. Drain, rinse, and let cool.
2. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes until golden.
3. In a large bowl, combine pasta, roasted cauliflower, chickpeas, bell pepper, parsley, and feta cheese.
4. Whisk together the dressing ingredients until smooth. Pour over the pasta salad and toss to coat.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best flavor.

Roasted Cauliflower and Chickpea Winter Pasta Salad delivers robust flavors and wholesome ingredients that will leave you feeling satisfied. The creamy tahini dressing enhances the nutty and roasted notes of the dish, making it a must-try winter recipe.

Smoked Salmon and Dill Winter Pasta Salad

Elevate your winter dining experience with this luxurious Smoked Salmon and Dill Winter Pasta Salad. Flaky smoked salmon, tangy capers, and a creamy dill dressing pair beautifully with al dente pasta, offering a balance of decadence and lightness that’s perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz farfalle (bow-tie) pasta
• 4 oz smoked salmon, flaked
• ¼ cup capers, drained
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced

Creamy Dill Dressing:

• ½ cup Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the farfalle pasta until al dente. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine pasta, smoked salmon, capers, cherry tomatoes, dill, and red onion.
3. Mix the dressing ingredients in a small bowl until smooth. Pour over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Chill for 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

The Smoked Salmon and Dill Winter Pasta Salad is a delightful blend of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors. The dill dressing perfectly complements the smoky salmon, making this dish a showstopper for your winter table.

Warm Winter Sausage and Broccoli Pasta Salad

Hearty and flavorful, the Warm Winter Sausage and Broccoli Pasta Salad combines savory sausage, roasted broccoli, and chewy pasta for a cozy dish that warms you from the inside out. Tossed in a garlic-infused olive oil dressing, this pasta salad is perfect as a comforting main course or a satisfying side.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz rotini pasta
• 2 cups broccoli florets, roasted
• 8 oz Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Garlic Olive Oil Dressing:

• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss broccoli with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 15-20 minutes, until slightly charred.
3. In a skillet, cook the Italian sausage until browned. Drain any excess grease.
4. In a large bowl, combine pasta, roasted broccoli, sausage, and sun-dried tomatoes.
5. Heat olive oil in a small pan over low heat, add garlic, and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in lemon juice and red pepper flakes, if using. Pour over the pasta salad and toss to coat.
6. Top with Parmesan cheese before serving.

The Warm Winter Sausage and Broccoli Pasta Salad is a comforting dish that combines hearty ingredients with a burst of flavor from the garlic dressing. It’s perfect for a cozy night in or as a hearty addition to your winter dinner spread.

Beet and Goat Cheese Winter Pasta Salad

Celebrate the earthy sweetness of beets with this Beet and Goat Cheese Winter Pasta Salad. The vibrant colors of roasted beets, creamy goat cheese, and peppery arugula make this salad as visually appealing as it is delicious. A honey-balsamic dressing ties it all together for a tangy and sweet finish.

Ingredients:

• 10 oz penne pasta
• 2 medium beets, roasted and diced
• 2 cups arugula
• ¼ cup goat cheese, crumbled
• ¼ cup walnuts, toasted

Honey-Balsamic Dressing:

• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the penne according to package instructions. Drain and let cool.
2. Roast the beets at 375°F (190°C) for 45 minutes or until tender. Let cool, peel, and dice.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine pasta, roasted beets, arugula, goat cheese, and toasted walnuts.
4. Whisk together the dressing ingredients until smooth. Drizzle over the salad and toss to coat.
5. Chill for 20 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

The Beet and Goat Cheese Winter Pasta Salad is a striking dish that’s both nutritious and indulgent. With its balance of earthy, creamy, and tangy flavors, this salad is sure to be a wintertime favorite.

Sweet Potato and Cranberry Winter Pasta Salad

Sweet and savory flavors collide in this Sweet Potato and Cranberry Winter Pasta Salad. Roasted sweet potatoes, tangy cranberries, and crunchy pecans come together with pasta and a spiced maple dressing. It’s a delightful combination that’s perfect for winter gatherings or a cozy family dinner.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz cavatappi pasta (or any short pasta)
• 1 medium sweet potato, cubed and roasted
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• ¼ cup pecans, toasted
• ¼ cup green onions, thinly sliced

Spiced Maple Dressing:

• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta until al dente. Drain, rinse, and set aside.
2. Roast sweet potato cubes at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, until golden and tender.
3. In a large bowl, combine pasta, roasted sweet potatoes, cranberries, pecans, and green onions.
4. Whisk together the dressing ingredients in a small bowl until well combined. Pour over the salad and toss gently.
5. Let the salad sit for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.

The Sweet Potato and Cranberry Winter Pasta Salad is a festive dish that combines sweet, nutty, and spiced elements for a delightful winter treat. It’s a perfect side dish for holiday meals or a comforting option for any cold day.

Kale and Walnut Pesto Winter Pasta Salad

This Kale and Walnut Pesto Winter Pasta Salad delivers the perfect mix of hearty and fresh. Packed with nutrient-rich kale, creamy Parmesan, and the nutty crunch of walnuts, it’s all tied together by a bright homemade pesto. It’s a delicious way to enjoy fresh, wintry flavors in pasta form.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz fusilli pasta
• 3 cups fresh kale, chopped
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• ¼ cup walnuts, toasted

Walnut Pesto:

• 2 cups fresh kale leaves
• ¼ cup walnuts
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 1 clove garlic
• Juice of ½ lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook fusilli pasta according to package instructions. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.
2. Prepare the pesto: In a food processor, combine kale, walnuts, Parmesan, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. Blend until smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
3. In a large bowl, combine pasta, kale, cherry tomatoes, Parmesan, and walnuts.
4. Add the pesto and toss until everything is evenly coated.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours to let the flavors meld.

The Kale and Walnut Pesto Winter Pasta Salad is a delightful fusion of earthy, nutty, and tangy flavors. The homemade pesto adds a refreshing twist, making it a healthy and delicious dish for your winter table.

Butternut Squash and Sage Winter Pasta Salad

Rich, creamy, and perfectly seasonal, this Butternut Squash and Sage Winter Pasta Salad is a cozy winter delight. Sweet roasted butternut squash pairs beautifully with sage-infused butter and a sprinkle of Parmesan for a warm and inviting dish.

Ingredients:

• 10 oz farfalle pasta
• 2 cups butternut squash, cubed and roasted
• ¼ cup sage leaves, chopped
• 2 tbsp butter
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• ¼ cup toasted pumpkin seeds

Sage Butter Dressing:

• 3 tbsp butter
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook farfalle pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes, until tender and slightly caramelized.
3. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped sage and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat.
4. In a large bowl, combine pasta, roasted squash, Parmesan, and pumpkin seeds. Drizzle with sage butter dressing and toss gently.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best flavor.

The Butternut Squash and Sage Winter Pasta Salad is a true winter comfort dish. The sweetness of the squash and the warmth of sage butter make it a perfect option for cozy nights or holiday gatherings.

Winter Shrimp and Avocado Pasta Salad

Brighten your winter table with this refreshing yet hearty Winter Shrimp and Avocado Pasta Salad. Juicy shrimp, creamy avocado, and crisp cucumber are paired with al dente pasta and a zesty lemon vinaigrette for a light, citrusy twist that feels like a burst of sunshine in the cold months.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz bowtie pasta
• 1 lb cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1 cup cucumber, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped

Lemon Vinaigrette:

• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook bowtie pasta until al dente. Drain, rinse with cold water, and let cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine pasta, shrimp, avocado, cucumber, red onion, and dill.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the vinaigrette ingredients. Pour over the pasta salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours to allow the flavors to blend.

The Winter Shrimp and Avocado Pasta Salad is a delightful mix of creamy, fresh, and zesty flavors. The combination of shrimp and avocado feels indulgent yet light, making this dish an elegant choice for any winter meal.

Roasted Mushroom and Spinach Winter Pasta Salad

The Roasted Mushroom and Spinach Winter Pasta Salad brings together earthy roasted mushrooms, tender spinach, and nutty pasta, all tossed in a warm, savory dressing. This dish is comforting yet light enough to enjoy as a side or a main dish during the cooler months.

Ingredients:

• 10 oz rotini pasta
• 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Warm Balsamic Dressing:

• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss mushrooms with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast on a baking sheet for 15-20 minutes, until browned and tender.
2. Cook rotini pasta according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
3. In a small pan, heat olive oil and garlic over low heat until fragrant. Stir in balsamic vinegar and Dijon mustard. Cook for 1-2 minutes, then season with salt and pepper.
4. In a large bowl, combine pasta, roasted mushrooms, spinach, and red onion. Drizzle the warm dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Top with grated Parmesan and serve immediately.

This Roasted Mushroom and Spinach Winter Pasta Salad is the perfect balance of warm and comforting flavors, with the rich depth of roasted mushrooms and the freshness of spinach. It’s a delightful option for cozy dinners and gatherings during the winter season.

Citrus and Fennel Winter Pasta Salad

Brighten up your winter meals with the refreshing Citrus and Fennel Winter Pasta Salad. The combination of citrusy fruits, crunchy fennel, and al dente pasta is enhanced by a tangy citrus vinaigrette that delivers a light yet flavorful dish perfect for the colder months.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 1 fennel bulb, thinly sliced
• 1 orange, peeled and segmented
• 1 grapefruit, peeled and segmented
• ¼ cup green onions, sliced
• ¼ cup almonds, toasted

Citrus Vinaigrette:

• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp fresh orange juice
• 1 tbsp white wine vinegar
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine pasta, fennel, citrus segments, green onions, and toasted almonds.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the citrus vinaigrette ingredients. Pour over the pasta salad and toss gently to coat.
4. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

The Citrus and Fennel Winter Pasta Salad is a zesty and refreshing dish that adds a burst of brightness to your winter menu. The combination of sweet citrus and crisp fennel makes it a unique and vibrant salad perfect for any occasion.

Pomegranate and Pear Winter Pasta Salad

This Pomegranate and Pear Winter Pasta Salad offers a beautiful blend of sweet and tart flavors. The juicy pears and pomegranate seeds pair wonderfully with the creamy goat cheese and walnuts, making this pasta salad an elegant yet easy choice for winter gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

• 10 oz farfalle pasta
• 2 ripe pears, sliced
• ½ cup pomegranate seeds
• ¼ cup walnuts, toasted
• ¼ cup goat cheese, crumbled
• 2 cups arugula

Balsamic Maple Dressing:

• 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 2 tbsp maple syrup
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook farfalle pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine pasta, pear slices, pomegranate seeds, walnuts, goat cheese, and arugula.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic maple dressing ingredients. Pour over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 1 hour to allow the flavors to develop.

The Pomegranate and Pear Winter Pasta Salad is a festive and refreshing dish that combines the sweetness of pears and pomegranate with the creaminess of goat cheese. Perfect for a holiday table or as a light winter meal, it’s a flavorful and elegant pasta salad that’s sure to impress.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!